As I look back, I am struck by the enormity of some of the projects we have undertaken this year, illustrating the unrelenting demand for cultural experiences in New Zealand. The work we do has the potential to impact on every person in this country, as culture speaks to the very heart of what it means to be a New Zealander.
When measured in people-numbers, the Ministry is a relatively small government organisation. When measured against the landmark achievements of this year such as the return of the Unknown Warrior and the launch of Te Ara, the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, the Ministry demonstrates that size doesn’t matter when you are rich in people with passion and commitment.
Within this report you will find six Reference Point stories, which stand as examples of government’s commitment to culture in New Zealand and the benefits that will accrue both nationally and internationally when we have a strong national identity.
As well as the headline-making achievements of the year, the bread and butter work of the Ministry has continued apace. We recognise that we are just one part of a multi-faceted cultural sector and great satisfaction is gained from supporting agencies, communities and other government organisations to achieve positive outcomes.
This Annual Report is a snapshot in time, featuring the objectives, strategies and outcomes the Ministry has been working on in the 2004 – 05 year. Some of our projects span a number of years and others have been completed in the year, and the future of culture in New Zealand will provide excitement and challenges for us all.
I hope this report gives you a feel for the work of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage in the past, the present and the future, and in doing so helps celebrate what it means to be a New Zealander.
Martin Matthews
Chief Executive
